Sold into slavery by her parents, Polly Bemis faced discrimination as a Chinese immigrant in America – but became something of a pioneer of the West.
Women and the American Story
Produced in partnership with the New York Historical Society, this series on Women in the American Story illuminates diverse women’s contributions to the American past. You can visit the WAMS project here: https://wams.nyhistory.org/
Dolley Madison: The First First Lady
As the host of unrivalled skill, First Lady Dolley Madison brought the US political elite together by throwing the best parties Washington, DC had ever seen.
Sacagawea: Intrepid Indigenous Explorer
Native American interpreter Sacagawea was the only woman on Lewis and Clark’s expedition into the West. She played a vital role, but was subsequently forgotten.
Charity and Sylvia: A Federal Era Love Story
Sylvia Drake and Charity Bryant overcame many challenges to become pioneers of LGBTQ+ visibility in the United States.
Sally Hemings: Surviving Slavery and Sexual Exploitation
Sally Hemings was an enslaved woman who had several children with Founding Father Thomas Jefferson. Her story of agency and eventual emancipation remains an inspiration.
Toypurina: The Indigenous Female Freedom Fighter
The story of a Tongva woman named Toypurina who led a rebellion against a Spanish mission in Alta California.
Mary Church Terrell: Bringing Suffrage & Equality Center Stage
Mary Church Terrell was a lifelong activist who advocated for suffrage and equal rights.
Harriet Robinson Scott: How Filing for Freedom Triggered the Civil War
The story of Harriet Robinson Scott who challenged slavery in the highest court in the United States.
Sojourner Truth: Black History & Woman’s Rights Heroine
The story of how an enslaved woman, Sojourner Truth, became one of the most important social justice activists in American history.
Marsha P. Johnson: A Trans Pioneer for Equal Rights
The story of transgender activist, Marsha P. Johnson, who dedicated her life to LGBTQ+ rights.